Disability Awareness Award

Every year, people with disabilities in Chautauqua County make tremendous strides in their quest to lead productive, meaningful lives. And every day, they are supported in their endeavors by a wide segment of the community that appreciates and values the contributions those with disabilities can make, if given a chance.

To recognize the efforts of people with disabilities and those who support them, The Resource Center and TRC Foundation each year hold a celebration to pay tribute to this deserving group. The public is invited to submit nominations - either of individuals with disabilities whom they know, or persons and organizations from the community that have had a positive impact on the lives of those with disabling conditions - for the 20h annual Disability Awareness Awards.

Nominations are being accepted until September 22 for the awards, which celebrate the achievements of people with disabilities while also honoring individuals, businesses and organizations that, during the past year, have made contributions toward improving the quality of life for people with disabilities and their families living in Chautauqua County. Awards will be given in the following categories:

Advocate of the Year, recognizing a person or organization that has advocated for the rights of individuals with disabilities to achieve greater independence and integration in the community, or a person who has made significant personal accomplishments in the area of self-advocacy.

Allied Industries Customer of the Year, honoring a business partner that has provided work to Allied Industries (The Resource Center's manufacturing division), where employment, work training and skill development opportunities are provided to individuals with disabilities.

Carl Cappa Humanitarian of the Year, honoring an individual who has provided financial support to improve the quality of life for individuals with disabilities. This award is named in honor of the late Carl Cappa of Jamestown, a philanthropist who made significant financial contributions to improve the lives of people with disabilities.

Community Support Award, given to a person, service group or business that has provided unique opportunities and experiences to individuals with disabilities.

Edwin W. Roth Memorial Award, recognizing a consumer, consumer advocate, agency, professional, or individual that has supported efforts to improve the lives of persons with mental illness or substance abuse challenges. This award is named in honor of the late Ed Roth, a New York State Office of Mental Health official who was a strong advocate for people with mental illness.

Elmer Muench Volunteer of the Year, honoring a person who has donated time, talents and/or expertise toward improving the quality of life for individuals with disabilities. In addition to interacting directly with persons with disabilities, volunteer service could include assisting with special events, serving on a board or committee, or other uses of personal time. This award is named in honor of the late Elmer Muench of Fredonia, a longtime volunteer and advocate for people with disabilities.

Employer of the Year, recognizing to an employer that has improved the availability, accessibility and quality of integrated employment for people with disabilities.

Health Provider of the Year, honoring an entity or professional that has enhanced the lives of persons with disabilities by providing outstanding health services.

Outstanding Achievement, saluting a person challenged by a severe disability who has made significant advancements in the areas of personal skills, community integration or contributions to society.

Success of the Year, praising an individual challenged by a disability who has achieved his or her goals in the areas of community integration and/or employment.